The Best Rain Gear for Travel

No matter where we’re headed, there’s always the possibility of rain on any given day.

We’ve all been in those situations. Some are by choice, like the that spring trip to London, the wintery Seattle conference, or the epic days in Hong Kong, punctuated by monsoon rain. Others come out of nowhere, like lucking into rain in the desert, the typhoon that reroutes your flight, or summer thunderstorms interrupting an afternoon. Whether your wet weather is by choice, or an uncontrollable, spontaneous addition to your adventure, carrying some travel rain gear can save the day.

Travel Rain Gear for Everyday Adventures

Sometimes, rain gear is really handy, even when it’s not raining. Whether you’re headed to the beach, jumping on a ferry to Catalina Island, taking off on an urban hiking trail on a cloudy day, checking out the floating markets in Bangkok, or searching for whales on your Cape Cod excursion – you’re bound to have fun, make memories, and get wet. For those outings that cross the land/water barrier, when you know getting wet is likely, plan ahead.

Packing Light & Travel Rain Gear

Adding rain gear doesn’t mean that you have to check a bag. Consider items that will do double duty and simplify as much as possible. Bring a few ziploc bags for wet emergencies. Pack a travel towel. And choose your travel backpack and daypack with the possibility of getting wet in mind.

The Outbreaker daypackis the ultimate weather resistant daypack. Made of the same waterproof sailcloth as the travel backpacks, this little bag has room for your computer, and everything you’ll need for your day’s adventure.

Because all clothing needs some breathability. Otherwise, no one would buy them because they’d be so danged uncomfortable.”

Waterproof vs Water-Resistant

Unless you’re going for marine grade foul weather gear, waterproof is probably overkill. Water-resistant will keep the rain off your skin but also allow for breathability while adventuring – it’s a “light rain for a limited amount of time” option. This will be adequate for most of the rain you’ll encounter on your urban adventures, but don’t be afraid to dive deep into that fabric research and find the perfect blend of form and function.

Layers & Coatings

Rain jackets have layers and coatings. They start at 2 layer and head up from there.

All things being equal, I’d ditch the umbrella option in favor of the benefits of a rain jacket, waterproof fabric of my bag, or the rain cover option. If you’re traveling carry on only, space in your bag is at a premium and an umbrella is something you could buy when you get there if you decide you need it. Anytime I’ve been stuck in Manhattan in a rain storm there’s always been someone selling a $3 umbrella that might not be the best of the bunch, but manages to keep me dry from point A to point B.

This umbrella is made of incredibly sturdy 9-rib construction and amidst others which sell for more than 2x it’s price, this little guy stands up to those gale-force winds that smack us in the face in the middle of a magical travel day.

Shoes for Wet Days

According to Shawn, who wore these puppies walking all 500 miles of the Camino (including rain) they, “Handled wet, rocky trails, mud, rain, cobblestones, and city streets in stride. Best part—they only weigh 1 lb 11 oz.”

At just 4.6 oz each these sandals are the lightest and most comfortable sandals on the market. They roll up to nothing when they’re in your bag, and put up with wet weather while keeping the soles of your feet safe.

Travel Rain Gear for Your Gear & for Fun!

No matter where you are in the world, the possibility of rain is there. It could start to pour as you leave your Uber on the way to your Airbnb, deluge while you’re riding bikes around Amsterdam, or be in the annoying constant drizzle stage as you grab your Starbucks mid-sightseeing adventure. Pack a few things in anticipation of the possibility of rain, particularly if you’re going somewhere known for wet. *cough*London*cough*

In our best waterproof gear for travel guide, Shawn shares a ton of options for weatherproof gear that performs on the road. Depending on your travel habits, these little extras might add fun to your adventure, rain or shine.

Waterproof Bluetooth Speakers

No matter where you go, your tunes go with you. When you’re ready to bring the party, pool side or on a wet afternoon, waterproof bluetooth speakers the way to go. Sean reviewed a bunch, but these two rose to the top:

This, more expensive, option has a 20 hour battery life, great sound design, and claims to be fully waterproof – give it a try, submerse the speaker and still hear the music.

Waterproof Phone Cases

You know, for the times when a ziploc bag is definitely not enough! Our phones are our lifelines, our guidebooks, GPS navigation, restaurant and activity planners, work and family connection, as well as our cameras and so much more. A waterproof case is a great investment if you’re going to a place where your phone is likely to encounter water.

If you don’t like the extra bulk for every day use, consider packing the waterproof one along as an “extra” and just putting it on only when you need it.

Lifeproof lives up to it’s name. While nothing lasts forever and never fails, these are the best bang for your buck. Slap one on your phone and leave your DSLR at home, use your phone camera instead.

Waterproof Camera

Gone are the days of point and shoot waterproof cameras. Some phones with cameras are waterproof enough to take them snorkeling, so rain isn’t an issue. But if you’re serious about recording your adventures, rain or shine, the GoPro is the way to go. Not ready to buy one? Consider renting a GoPro instead.

If packability is important, go with a stick sunscreen, like this one, instead of worrying about the TSA liquids rules. It’s still water resistant and it’s non-comedogenic, which is good news for your skin!

Grossed out by putting sunscreen on your lips? Worried about what’s IN that stuff? Me too. Get a sunscreen stick made of organic ingredients and formulated especially for tender lip skin.

TL;DR

Wet weather adventures come in all shapes and sizes, expected and unexpected. Aim for a stress-free adventure and plan for the possibilities of changing weather by investing in travel rain gear that is ready for whatever a day throws at you.

Invest in a travel backpack made of waterproof fabric and never worry about a wet travel day again.

Make the investment in a quality rain jacket, you won’t be sorry!

Make your second pair of shoes a pair that will take a wet day in stride.